Microsoft today announced that John Schappert has been named to head the company's Xbox Live efforts in a newly created role within the Interactive Entertainment Business.

Schappert comes to Microsoft after nearly 10 years with Electronic Arts, the No. 1 video game publisher. If that sounds like a familiar career path, it is. On July 17, Microsoft announced that Peter Moore, head of the Interactive Entertainment Business, is leaving to become president of EA Sports. In his place, Microsoft hired Don Mattrick, who's last job before coming to Microsoft as a consultant in February was with ... wait for it ... EA.

Schappert was an executive vice president at EA in charge of central technology, operations, EA online and the office of the chief creative officer, according to Microsoft's announcement today.

Schappert's purview at Microsoft is the Xbox Live online gaming network, which has more than 7 million members. In addition to multi-player games, the network offers video downloads and communication services, such as instant messaging. He will also oversee Microsoft's casual games business.

So, should the growing roster of EA alums at Microsoft and vice-versa raise the hackles of competitors?